Non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation (nVNS) and Cognition in Young Adult Vapers - A Pilot Study
Vaping and Vagal Neuromodulation of Cognition
Who can join
Ages 18 to 25 · All sexes · Healthy volunteers welcome
Full eligibility criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy young adults * Age range 18-25 years * Current or prior users of e-cigarettes Exclusion Criteria: Participants will be excluded from the study if they: * Have any rash, infection, swelling, cut, soreness, drug patch, surgical scar on the neck area * Have any implantable medical device in their body such as a pacemaker, hearing aid implant, or any other metallic/electronic device * Have any hearing or vision problems that are not corrected * Are pregnant or breastfeeding * Have any learning disabilities * Have a medical history of any of the following condition * Meningitis * Traumatic brain injury * Seizure * Syncope * Schizophrenia * Schizoaffective disorder * Bulimia (eating disorder) * Other serious neurological illness * Have a medical history of any of the following cardiac disorder * Carotid atherosclerosis or carotid artery disease * Cervical vagotomy * First degree atrioventricular block or prolonged QT interval * Are taking any medications for to treat hypertension, arrhythmias, or are on calcium channel blockers
About the study
The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nNVS) on cognitive functioning in the users of e-cigarettes or vaping products. The investigators will use a digital wellness companion product (TRUVAGA™ device) that provides mild transcutaneous nVNS. The participants will be randomized to receive either a 2-min nNVS stimulation or control stimulation in the neck region followed by completion of three cognitive tests of attention and executive function.
What is being tested
- Active nVNS (device)
- Control nVNS (device)
Sponsor: Temple University · Participants: 100 · Started: Mar 18, 2025
Contact the study team
- Vinay Parikh, PhD · Phone: 215-204-1572
Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT06804109
Locations in the U.S.
| Pennsylvania | Temple University, Philadelphia |
Conditions
From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.